BYU Edges Wisconsin in Thrilling NCAA Tournament Battle
March 22, 2025 – NCAA Tournament – Round of 32
In a heart-pounding second-round showdown of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, the BYU Cougars held off the Wisconsin Badgers 91-89 to punch their ticket to the Sweet 16. The Cougars’ victory marks their first trip to the regional semifinals since 2011 and solidifies their status as a legitimate contender in this year’s tournament.
First Half: A Battle of Momentum
From the opening tip, both teams showcased their offensive firepower. BYU came out firing from beyond the arc, led by sharpshooter Richie Saunders, who hit key three-pointers to keep the Cougars ahead. Wisconsin countered with their inside presence, as senior forward Steven Crowl dominated in the paint, scoring eight early points to keep the Badgers in striking distance.
Midway through the first half, BYU stretched its lead to double digits behind a flurry of transition buckets and efficient perimeter shooting. However, Wisconsin’s resilience kept them within reach, as guard John Tonje heated up late in the half, cutting BYU’s advantage to 46-42 heading into halftime.
Second Half: Late Drama Unfolds
BYU continued to control the pace early in the second half, extending their lead to 12 points with aggressive drives from guard Dallin Hall and timely three-pointers from Trevin Knell. But Wisconsin, true to their reputation, refused to back down.
Tonje exploded offensively in the second half, finishing with a game-high 37 points, including eight crucial points in the final five minutes to fuel a Wisconsin comeback. A controversial moment came with just over three minutes remaining when BYU’s Dawson Baker was ejected following a flagrant foul on Wisconsin’s Max Klesmit. The call sparked a surge from the Badgers, who capitalized on free throws and quick scores to pull within two points.
With under 10 seconds to play and BYU clinging to a 91-89 lead, Wisconsin had one final chance. Tonje attempted a difficult fadeaway jumper from the baseline, but the shot rimmed out, sealing the victory for the Cougars.
Key Performances
Richie Saunders (BYU) – 25 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists
Dallin Hall (BYU) – 18 points, 6 assists
John Tonje (Wisconsin) – 37 points, 5 rebounds
Steven Crowl (Wisconsin) – 15 points, 9 rebounds
Looking Ahead
With the victory, sixth-seeded BYU (26-9) advances to the Sweet 16, where they will face the winner of Alabama vs. St. Mary’s in the East Regional semifinals in Newark. Meanwhile, third-seeded Wisconsin (27-10) sees its season come to an end after a hard-fought battle.
BYU’s return to the Sweet 16 rekindles memories of their 2011 run led by Jimmer Fredette. With a balanced attack and resilience under pressure, the Cougars are proving to be a serious threat in March Madness.
Stay tuned as the tournament action continues to unfold!
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